BREAKING: Spurs Select F Carter Bryant 14th Overall in the 2025 NBA Draft

[rascal]

No fucking kidding :lol I get that Bryant is on the rawer side of things, but this idea that he should be stuck in Austin or only playing garbage minutes behind guys like Keldon/Barnes/Champagnie is laughable. If he’s anywhere close to the prospect people think he is (widely considered top-10 caliber) then he should be getting 10-15 mpg to start and 15-20 mpg towards the end of the season.

He should be getting more minutes right out of the gate unless he looks really bad. Need to put the young core on the fast development track.

[LeBowen]

I read that he was the only college player other than Flagg who had at least 30 assists, 30 blocks and 30 steals this season.
Would've probably been at 50 in all categories if he played starter minutes.

[rascal]

He'll be great finishing on the break with the fast athletic backcourt.

Spurs are giong to be fun to watch.

[ace3g]

Did Bryant have knee surgery? Looks to have a long scar on his knee.

Edit: He has had injury issues with his knee, knee surgery

He worked hard and persevered to get through the injury. He had a compound fracture in his tibia and it was not certain he would be able to play basketball again. "It shows my mental fortitude, my grit," Bryant said.


But there has been hard work in every step of the process for the Sage Hill School junior, who is one of the top recruits in the class of 2024. He broke his tibia and fractured his growth plate in his left leg when he was undercut going up for a dunk as a freshman. That kept him out for nearly a year; the scar is still displayed prominently under his knee. Bryant came back as a sophomore. The 6-foot-8, 225-pound wing player showed his obvious potential, but he was on a minutes restriction. Then he transferred from Fountain Valley High to Sage Hill School this past summer, as his father D’Cean Bryant went from coaching the Barons to guiding the Lightning.

Daily Pilot Boys' Basketball Dream Team: Carter Bryant led Sage Hill to memorable season - Los Angeles Times (https://www.latimes.com/socal/daily-pilot/sports/story/2023-04-07/daily-pilot-boys-basketball-dream-team-carter-bryant-led-sage-hill-to-memorable-season)

[Dejounte]

Daily Pilot Boys' Basketball Dream Team: Carter Bryant led Sage Hill to memorable season - Los Angeles Times (https://www.latimes.com/socal/daily-pilot/sports/story/2023-04-07/daily-pilot-boys-basketball-dream-team-carter-bryant-led-sage-hill-to-memorable-season)

thats concerning tbh

[BatManu20]

1938964888216281590

[rascal]

Daily Pilot Boys' Basketball Dream Team: Carter Bryant led Sage Hill to memorable season - Los Angeles Times (https://www.latimes.com/socal/daily-pilot/sports/story/2023-04-07/daily-pilot-boys-basketball-dream-team-carter-bryant-led-sage-hill-to-memorable-season)

Hopefully the knee is structually sound and he'll have no future issues with it.

[LeBowen]

It happened two years ago and I'd say ACL tears are way more concerning than broken bones.

[BatManu20]

Yea sounds like that injury was from his Freshman year of high school. He's played a lot of basketball since then and NBA teams focus highly on medicals during the pre-draft process so I'm sure PATFO did their due diligence. Non-issue imo.

[BatManu20]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GuizS0TXMAAhE4d?format=jpg&name=small

[SpursBills]

https://www.orthobullets.com/pediatrics/4023/tibial-tubercle-fracture

Based on where that scar is, this is probably what he had 4 years ago

[Uriel]

It's important to note that even for the best 3 and D guys of the past generation, a majority of them didn't generate close to positive value until age 22-23, so it will be important to temper expectations. Age 20 LDN, Battier, Klay, and Toumani were all in college. There is a strong likelihood Carter Bryant is going to a massive negative next year if he plays and it will be important to not knee-jerk react if he puts up 2/1/0.5 on 39/27/67 shooting - literally Danny Green's age 22 rookie year stats.
I thought the plan was to have him in Austin for most of the year?

[KobesAchilles]

I would start him. He has nobody in front of him that should start over him. It’s one thing if he’s a guard and we have Castle, Fox, and Harper. But he’s a SF. He’s literally the only SF on the team (well I guess him and Champ). But to bench him in favor of guys who probably aren’t going to even be on the team next year is laughable.

One of KJ or Vassell is gone. Why would we play them over him? Trade one over the summer and just insert him in their role. The Spurs would be better for it.

[exstatic]

Almost 3 blks and 2 steals a game. CB will feast on loose balls from
Wemby’s defense/blocks (once he starts playing beside Wemby. An opportunistic scorer who doesn’t need the ball on his hands. He’s a perfect complement to Wemby.
I’m not sure what source you’re looking at but those aren’t his stock numbers. Those aren’t even his per/36 numbers.

[BatManu20]

i1am-zx31nY

[John B]

I’m not sure what source you’re looking at but those aren’t his stock numbers. Those aren’t even his per/36 numbers.

Sorry just came back from 2028. Don’t mean to possibly creating a time paradox that could destroy the universe. Kidding aside I was looking at his junior high school.

[exstatic]

Sorry just came back from 2028. Don’t mean to possibly creating a time paradox that could destroy the universe. Kidding aside I was looking at his junior high school.

Piece of advice: completely disregard HS stats. Scoot looked like God in HS, and is scuffling in the NBA. A lot of the HS phenoms never even make it to the league.

[RC_Drunkford]

Piece of advice: completely disregard HS stats. Scoot looked like God in HS, and is scuffling in the NBA. A lot of the HS phenoms never even make it to the league.

you can still identify other parts of their game from watching highschool tape. Castle's on-ball and playmaking ability was showcased in highschool, while none of that happened in college because he had a different role. Agree though that stats don't really matter there. Even Pat Bev dropped 40 on the regular in highschool.

1622009754964086784

[JMarkJohns]

LFG! Great pick at 14th Overall tbh. Athletic wing prospect with nice 3&D potential. Perfect piece to surround Wemby with. Welcome to San Antonio, young man. Please don't be a bust.

Name: Carter Bryant
Height: 6'8 (in shoes)
Weight: 215 lbs.
Wingspan: 6'11 3/4
Standing reach: 8'10

1938052057627562463

d-Is1iKl-ZE

lp_NdVfFNXk

Hey everyone. Spurs and Thunder were the absolute ideal fits for Carter. Let’s chat about him with some advanced good bad ugly and what I as a lifelong Arizona fan believe his upside/fit to be.

First, he is a person of outstanding character and a basketball lifer. He loves the mental side of the game, so film study and coaching up will be easy. He surrounds himself with positive influences and that mentality will benefit the entire team as he’s been a lynchpin teammate amidst success at every level of play. Incredible family and incredible people who will make Spurs org proud.

Ok, let’s talk his game.

Ideal NBA frame for SF. 6-8 in shoes, good shoulders and hips to add more strength. Long-ish reach with plus plus explosive athleticism. Averaged 2 stocks in 19 mpg. Good rebounder. Has the makings of a good defender, be it an athletic deflection generator type, or actual on-ball. His shot wavered a bit in stretches, but was consistently 34-38% all season, and his March was incredible as he found his stride while playing season high minutes per, and this came vs some of the hardest part of the Wildcats Schedule including @ISU, Houston, @KU, Big12 Tournament including Tech and Houston again, then tournament including Duke.

Where Carter must prove/improve is lateral agility. So much of his defensive upside is theoretical because he got burned off the dribble a decent bit. Length, athleticism allowed for chase down, recovery defense, but on-ball, he definitely felt stiff-hipped or heavy-footed perimeter in. Probably mostly fixable given his overall athleticism and his coach ability.

Main area of concern is just how limited he seemed to be with ball in his hands when not shooting. Was this timidity? Overly passive because he was a freshman on a veteran squad? Not sure. I really wanted to see more dribble drives attacking space, specifically off scrambling defenses. This should be a point of emphasis the first few years, IMO. His offensive upside doubles when he becomes super aggressive driving to hoop. He makes smart passes, so it could unlock some motion facilitation as well if he’s able to do some 2-3-4 dribble drives into the paint. Practice that lob for Wemby after 2-3 dribbles as a defense scrambles.

I would also stress the importance for him to have some sort of pull up J or floater for the inbetween game for when teams would rather keep the paint packed around Wemby than scramble to contest perimeter or inbetween spaces.

Not sure he’s ever going to have a bulldog mentality, but he will be a good fit as a 3/D with moments of dynamic athleticism.

All season I compared him to Kelly Oubre. I think it still fits: good sized dynamic athlete who rebounds well, generates stocks, can shoot in halfcourt and dunk hard in transition and off backcuts, but who isn’t a put the ball on the floor or shoot from the bounce type of offensive threat.

100% of Arizona Wildcat fans were excited he landed with Spurs.

[sfernald]

Wow, talk about the realization of a dream. Dude couldn't even afford a shirt for the draft. Wait until he gets that first check. He's gonna go crazy!

Sochan isn’t the pretty boy of the team any more.

[JMarkJohns]

I read that he was the only college player other than Flagg who had at least 30 assists, 30 blocks and 30 steals this season.
Would've probably been at 50 in all categories if he played starter minutes.

He absolutely would have. Many many Wildcat fans clamored for more Bryant. Early on he played just 12 mpg. Some of this was Arizona brought in a veteran senior transfer (Trey Townsend) and there were rumblings Tommy Lloyd made a promise of starters minutes to Trey/Trey’s Agent so Carter got slow played a bit as he was always expected to be a 2-year player (Carter discusses how surprised he was his freshman season could find him so highly thought of in draft circles).

To be 100% real and frank, Arizona’s season pivoted when Bryant and Veesaar became a focus of offense and started playing more because of their defensive versatility.

Carter’s shooting improved from early inconsistencies and topped out around 50% from deep in March, and his 3/4 versatility allowed for some bigger, physical lineups that allowed Arizona to feast on rebounds and defend well.

Per-36 stats showed he was quite a dynamic freshman, and while not Flagg, not really ever, Carter hit similar heights of impact because he knows his strengths and plays to them.

3s and Stocks and Hustle.

When his confidence settles, especially opposite Wemby where he can take a few chances at deflections, I think a 3+ stocks in NBA is doable with a 28-30 mpg role. Great instincts and uses body well/athleticism well.

Where he struggled on D most is vs more physical PFs because his frame isn’t developed to absorb contact like that yet. As he adds next 10-12 pounds of muscle, that will be fixed Id think.

[spurraider21]

there were very few guys in this draft who actually looked like lockdown man to man defenders. even Flagg would kind of get blown by when out on the perimeter. the two main 3&D wings of the draft were Bryant and Coward, and both looked more like defensive playmakers than "lock up" defenders. the only lockdown perimeter defender was CMB

i dont believe the "carter can defend 1-4" stuff. i think on a switch basis he'd be fine, but i didnt see a lot of herky jerky change of direction stuff on defense. i think he will mostly guard 3-4 types but will be able to switch as needed and hopefully his team/help defense can translate

castle was a much better m2m defender than bryant in college

[TimDunkem]

No reason why he shouldn't get more than enough burn next year. Solid defense, and another guy to run on the fast break. Everything else will come later.

[scott]

Thanks for the great intel JMarkJohns

[sfernald]

Wow, can’t wait to see him in action in summer league!

[ginobilized]

What a great personality and obviously a bright kid. His game will develop, but, he's got the quintessential Spurs qualities.
Tremendous amount of positive energy.

Psyched to watch him learn the game.

[TimmyBuckets]

Another perfect draft for the Spurs and another great player fell in our lap. He'll get minutes on his defense and off-ball vision alone. Plus he can shoot!

[cutewizard]

Salivating on the defensive capability of the trio >> Wemby-Castle-Carter Bryant........

[cutewizard]

Predicting that Carter Bryant will win one of those community service/community recognition awards in the future........

---------------------------------------------------------------------------


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZARODoD_vQ&t=92s

[PhantomDashCam]

Salivating on the defensive capability of the trio >> Wemby-Castle-Carter Bryant........

What about the Quartet of Wemby-Sochan-Castle-CB? Or you out on Sochan?

[cutewizard]

What about the Quartet of Wemby-Sochan-Castle-CB? Or you out on Sochan?

--------------------------------------------------

Sochan is yet to prove he can be in the regular rotation moving forward, hmmmm....

but yes, and imagine if we obtain Kornet......

Kornet, Wemby, Sochan, Castle and Bryant ...........

[Kawhi Duncan]

hope we play him at SF instead of PF...small ball doesn't win...big teams have been the overwhelming majority of NBA champions even in the modern era...we need an actual big at PF, but one that can shoot...size and versatility is what wins....not small ball...

[Ice009]

Thanks for the information JMarkJohns. Not loving the sounds of him needing to work on his "lateral agility" that you mentioned, but hopefully he can improve on that to stay with players and not rely on length and recovery the whole time. He's got all the other tools to be a good defender. Just needs to learn positioning a bit better too from the sounds of it and not jump as often/get sucked into a foul.

[mudyez]

So he is more of a Matisse Thybulle than a lock down defender?

[Dejounte]

Thanks for the information JMarkJohns. Not loving the sounds of him needing to work on his "lateral agility" that you mentioned, but hopefully he can improve on that to stay with players and not rely on length and recovery the whole time. He's got all the other tools to be a good defender. Just needs to learn positioning a bit better too from the sounds of it and not jump as often/get sucked into a foul.

The lack of agility is why he’s suited more for the PF role than a full time SF one. In many ways, he’s exactly like Barnes who has the same limitations. On the bright side, Bryant’s standing reach stacks up well against other PFs.

[JMarkJohns]

The lack of agility is why he’s suited more for the PF role than a full time SF one. In many ways, he’s exactly like Barnes who has the same limitations. On the bright side, Bryant’s standing reach stacks up well against other PFs.

And I should clarify. IMO, it’s not that he doesn’t have it once it gets going, but I mentioned stiff hipped and I truly feel his lateral agility is stuck in the sand for a split second or two too long. Once he’s moving, it shows up again. So it’s not that he doesn’t have it at all. But he needs some training and exercises that works past whatever stalls him initially.

He has great explosive tendencies athletically, but the quick twitch aspect in some of it needs work.

I think he can get better at it.

[JMarkJohns]

So he is more of a Matisse Thybulle than a lock down defender?

He’s definitely not a lock down defender right now, but has his moments. I said Kelly Oubre because he’s a menace with deflections and generates both steals and blocks, but also grabs rebounds at an above positional clip at SF but can swing to PF at times.

[Mugen]

Hey everyone. Spurs and Thunder were the absolute ideal fits for Carter. Let’s chat about him with some advanced good bad ugly and what I as a lifelong Arizona fan believe his upside/fit to be.

First, he is a person of outstanding character and a basketball lifer. He loves the mental side of the game, so film study and coaching up will be easy. He surrounds himself with positive influences and that mentality will benefit the entire team as he’s been a lynchpin teammate amidst success at every level of play. Incredible family and incredible people who will make Spurs org proud.

Ok, let’s talk his game.

Ideal NBA frame for SF. 6-8 in shoes, good shoulders and hips to add more strength. Long-ish reach with plus plus explosive athleticism. Averaged 2 stocks in 19 mpg. Good rebounder. Has the makings of a good defender, be it an athletic deflection generator type, or actual on-ball. His shot wavered a bit in stretches, but was consistently 34-38% all season, and his March was incredible as he found his stride while playing season high minutes per, and this came vs some of the hardest part of the Wildcats Schedule including @ISU, Houston, @KU, Big12 Tournament including Tech and Houston again, then tournament including Duke.

Where Carter must prove/improve is lateral agility. So much of his defensive upside is theoretical because he got burned off the dribble a decent bit. Length, athleticism allowed for chase down, recovery defense, but on-ball, he definitely felt stiff-hipped or heavy-footed perimeter in. Probably mostly fixable given his overall athleticism and his coach ability.

Main area of concern is just how limited he seemed to be with ball in his hands when not shooting. Was this timidity? Overly passive because he was a freshman on a veteran squad? Not sure. I really wanted to see more dribble drives attacking space, specifically off scrambling defenses. This should be a point of emphasis the first few years, IMO. His offensive upside doubles when he becomes super aggressive driving to hoop. He makes smart passes, so it could unlock some motion facilitation as well if he’s able to do some 2-3-4 dribble drives into the paint. Practice that lob for Wemby after 2-3 dribbles as a defense scrambles.

I would also stress the importance for him to have some sort of pull up J or floater for the inbetween game for when teams would rather keep the paint packed around Wemby than scramble to contest perimeter or inbetween spaces.

Not sure he’s ever going to have a bulldog mentality, but he will be a good fit as a 3/D with moments of dynamic athleticism.

All season I compared him to Kelly Oubre. I think it still fits: good sized dynamic athlete who rebounds well, generates stocks, can shoot in halfcourt and dunk hard in transition and off backcuts, but who isn’t a put the ball on the floor or shoot from the bounce type of offensive threat.

100% of Arizona Wildcat fans were excited he landed with Spurs.

Nice writeup, thanks tbh.

[Ice009]

Thanks. Appreciate the scouting report on him. Sounds like he can still improve on it which is great because he actually wants to play defense. You can't say that about a lot of player. Him wanting to play defense at a high level is half the battle IMO.

[JMarkJohns]

Thanks. Appreciate the scouting report on him. Sounds like he can still improve on it which is great because he actually wants to play defense. You can't say that about a lot of player. Him wanting to play defense at a high level is half the battle IMO.

I think it’s one of the areas focused training and agility sessions will improve. Will he hang with everyone at SF at strong levels at his best? Not sure, but Kelly Oubre with on-ball versatility is a hell of a defender on the wings. Most preps need it.

[Uriel]

How does Bryant compare with Patrick Williams?

[BatManu20]

Damn Carter was putting up some monster stat-lines in HS

1939666773415956786

[JMarkJohns]

How does Bryant compare with Patrick Williams?

I don’t see that comparison at all.

[TrainOfThought5]

intriguing pick, but i would not have made it. I would have gone with drake powell, as he seem a better overall defensive prospect based on numbers alone. I also struggle to see the fit with the starters, but he should be a godsend for the bench players

people forget that we need great bench players too

[Uriel]

I don’t see that comparison at all.
Aren’t they both 3-and-D wings with positional size and versatility?

[JMarkJohns]

Aren’t they both 3-and-D wings with positional size and versatility?

I’ve never associated Williams as a wing. He’s an undersized stretch PF. He definitely can shoot. Plays good D. Maybe that’s some sort of floor. I think Carter has more dynamic range to his game and more dynamic verticality. With time Carter should be a truer SF than PF, but it depends on what Spurs want from him.

As a prep Carter showed a low of secondary or transition facilitation. So he has some playmaker upside, I think it just needs structure.

[SpursBills]

https://x.com/balldontstop/status/1745310938381828547

Carter Bryant's high school highlights are actually surprising - not with respect to his stats, but just aesthetically looks like a completely different player here compared to how he was utilized at Arizona

[JMarkJohns]

https://x.com/balldontstop/status/1745310938381828547

Carter Bryant's high school highlights are actually surprising - not with respect to his stats, but just aesthetically looks like a completely different player here compared to how he was utilized at Arizona

It’s always tough to gauge prep stats as protectable, but it was a weird freshman season because the secondary and transition facilitation was just never there compared to his prep days.

I have a feeling it was an over-simplification due to Arizona entering the season as a veteran heavy team. Then they lost all 5 ranked matchups in Non-conference with Carter in a minimal role.

Once he actually started playing Arizona’s season turned around. His shots picked up, his percentage steadied and then maxed out in March, but those facilitation skills never showed up. I was looking forward to it in year 2. I’ll need ti wait longer now, but I like his upside in Spurs hands.

[TimmyBuckets]

If we don't grab a shooter, he's getting decent minutes this year for sure.

[Dejounte]

https://x.com/balldontstop/status/1745310938381828547

Carter Bryant's high school highlights are actually surprising - not with respect to his stats, but just aesthetically looks like a completely different player here compared to how he was utilized at Arizona
https://youtu.be/ejkdn1k8BI4?feature=shared

high school keldon looked different too.

[JMarkJohns]

https://youtu.be/ejkdn1k8BI4?feature=shared

high school keldon looked different too.

Every top-50 wing with size and athleticism looks like LeBron in high school. It’s the nature of physical advantage, maybe even age advantage. I remember Stanley Johnson looked like a cheat code as a junior and senior in HS. Was very good at Arizona but noticeably unable to beat quicker guards/wings off dribble, and by NBA all physical and age advantage was gone and he was barely even a role player. Literal top-3 player in a loaded 2014 prep class and out of the league by end of his rookie deal.

That said, I do think Carter has the athleticism to step up a bit more as a playmaker.

[RC_Drunkford]

Every top-50 wing with size and athleticism looks like LeBron in high school. It’s the nature of physical advantage, maybe even age advantage. I remember Stanley Johnson looked like a cheat code as a junior and senior in HS. Was very good at Arizona but noticeably unable to beat quicker guards/wings off dribble, and by NBA all physical and age advantage was gone and he was barely even a role player. Literal top-3 player in a loaded 2014 prep class and out of the league by end of his rookie deal.

That said, I do think Carter has the athleticism to step up a bit more as a playmaker.

fun fact: the guy who picked Stanley Johnson in the draft was no other than Brian Wright :lol

[BatManu20]

1940073158263837134

[BatManu20]

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[BatManu20]

1940155058487795812

[SpursFan86]

Man, this kid is so well-spoken and mature for his age. Can definitely see why he appealed to the Spurs even outside of his on-court qualities.

[exstatic]

https://youtu.be/ejkdn1k8BI4?feature=shared

high school keldon looked different too.

Keldon is physically limited. He’s not quick twitch or long.

[CGD]

My bold take: I think he ends up starting by midway through the season.

The sooner the Spurs get to Bryant-Sochan up front with Wemby, the better.

[Gandalf]

My bold take: I think he ends up starting by midway through the season.

The sooner the Spurs get to Bryant-Sochan up front with Wemby, the better.

After we build up a lead on a team, if we’re trying to protect it, I’d be interested to see how a Kornet - Wemby - Sochan - Bryant - Castle lineup looks out there.

[Allan Rowe vs Wade]

Big

[JMarkJohns]

After we build up a lead on a team, if we’re trying to protect it, I’d be interested to see how a Kornet - Wemby - Sochan - Bryant - Castle lineup looks out there.

I mean, Carter Bryant isn’t a SG. I’ve discussed some lateral agility issues where he struggled with Big12 SFs perimeter in. He’s smart. He’s heady. He’s got great explosive quickness. But that to me is a real gamble with his foul penchant.

[Gandalf]

I mean, Carter Bryant isn’t a SG. I’ve discussed some lateral agility issues where he struggled with Big12 SFs perimeter in. He’s smart. He’s heady. He’s got great explosive quickness. But that to me is a real gamble with his foul penchant.

Maybe switch Sochan to guard the SG on defense, or rotate Fox in and switch Castle. In any event, interested to see our best defensive lineups.

[The Truth #6]

Sochan and Bryant could be a good forward combo IF the shooting is passable.

But Bryant has SF size so I don't see the need to make him our PF, unless he's an outstanding rebounder. which I wasn't aware of.

[JMarkJohns]

Sochan and Bryant could be a good forward combo IF the shooting is passable.

But Bryant has SF size so I don't see the need to make him our PF, unless he's an outstanding rebounder. which I wasn't aware of.

He was a strong rebounder for his positions (PF/SF) in college. Not outstanding, though maybe some added strength helps this improve. But I have compared him to a Plus positional rebounder, Kelly Oubre, in how his size and athleticism and motor allow him to rebound 1-2 boards Per-36 over his position. Per-36 he was around 7.5 rpg vs Big12 which might be tougher to rebound vs than many NBA teams. With defenses focused on Wemby, I could see a similar rate at NBA level. But he’s just 220 pounds so he’s not a bruiser.

The most intriguing aspect is you now have 48 minutes of Sochan and Bryant and with that depth, both can play hard and aggressive because fouls aren’t a huge concern. At both SF/PF that is a quality advantage as Carter settles in and gains experience.

[JMarkJohns]

Maybe switch Sochan to guard the SG on defense, or rotate Fox in and switch Castle. In any event, interested to see our best defensive lineups.

Yeah, Fox was excellent for stocks in front of Wemby for the little he got to play with him. I had him on fantasy and he was like 3 steals per with Spurs. Not necessarily tantamount to good D, but Wemby covers for some matador D, and as long as the defenders are forcing a narrative of turnovers, I think Spurs have a strong defensive advantage with Fox, Castle, Sochan, Carter. Not sure what Vassell’s Defense is like.

Some versatility for legit on-ball/man defense there or turnover generation deflection chaos D as well.

[John B]

Damn Carter was putting up some monster stat-lines in HS

1939666773415956786

Spurs got lucky Bryant landed on their lap at #14. Behind upperclassmen, his total game wasn’t fully displayed at Arizona and to the Spurs benefit to steal this kid. I wanted Jalen Johnson previously, and felt bad the Spurs passed on him. Well Carter Bryant hopefully will redeem the FO for some of their bad calls. CB was a no brainer at #14. Spurs got lucky the Hawks didn’t take him at #13 or they would be so loaded with defensive athletic who can switch multiple positions. In retrospect, I would’ve given all ATL picks back for #13, and grab both Bryant and Sorber at #13 and #14 and would’ve fixed ALL positions in need. But don’t get me started…

[ace3g]

https://x.com/Josh810/status/1940887460340437086

[BatManu20]

1940907100227752092

[BatManu20]

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[KobesAchilles]

There’s no reason why he shouldn’t be our starter from day 1

[tbdog]

There’s no reason why he shouldn’t be our starter from day 1

He avg 6 and 4 in college. His shot needs to be faster. He probably can only guard 2s or weak 3s as he is a bit too skinny like most lanky rookies. He won't even be in the rotation for the first half of the season.

[LeBowen]

There’s no reason why he shouldn’t be our starter from day 1

You want to hurt Devin's ego?
Locker room leader Keldon also needs his minutes.

If Bryant is a positive defender right away and can hit wide open shots, there's no reason for Keldon to be in the rotation.

[Uriel]

What is the track record of players who put up mediocre stats in college and became good players in the NBA?

[exstatic]

What is the track record of players who put up mediocre stats in college and became good players in the NBA?

Devin Booker averaged 10 points off the bench at UK. It’s not unheard of.

[onechance87]

There’s no reason why he shouldn’t be our starter from day 1

if he can hit opens shots and play good d,He for sure should start.His competition is against
keldon,vassell,champ and sochan.Those guys are very inconsistent in making shots or playing d.

[Splits]

just sayin', but nephew started almost all his rookie year and all our playoff games during his rookie year as the 15th pick

[tbdog]

just sayin', but nephew started almost all his rookie year and all our playoff games during his rookie year as the 15th pick

Leonard looked bigger in college than Carter Bryant. Then Leonard rookie season was the 66 game season, where the season started later. He fixed his shot in the off season and had more time. He just came into the NBA with an NBA body.

Also Leonard avg 15 and 7 in his college year while CB avg 6 and 4. CB has a long way to go to being rookie Leonard.

[KobesAchilles]

Leonard looked bigger in college than Carter Bryant. Then Leonard rookie season was the 66 game season, where the season started later. He fixed his shot in the off season and had more time. He just came into the NBA with an NBA body.

Also Leonard avg 15 and 7 in his college year while CB avg 6 and 4. CB has a long way to go to being rookie Leonard.
Yes but Kawhi played a completely different position in college. He was a PF and had to learn how to play SF in the league. Plus Kawhi couldn’t shoot worth shit in college. As slow as you say Bryant’s release is (and let’s not pretend that Sochan has a fast release or a good shot himself) he is miles ahead as a shooter than Kawhi.

Also we don’t need Vassell as a starter. We have too many scorers as is in the starting line up with Castle, Fox, and Wemby. We need role players who can hit open shots and play defense. That’s not exactly Vassell’s calling card either. Our starting SF should be getting about 6 shots per game ideally. Vassell is a chucker who plays no defense and isn’t going to like his role as a spot up shooter. Better to play the rookie who has no ego and will be happy to even have a role vs Vassell who thinks he should be getting more shots, not play defense, and be unhappy in his role

[exstatic]

just sayin', but nephew started almost all his rookie year and all our playoff games during his rookie year as the 15th pick

Leonard was a 19 YO Sophomore draftee who played way more college minutes.

[ginobilized]

I'm psyched to see where CB aligns on the NBA spectrum.
It will be interesting to discover where the Spurs see him, too. He seems like he has great potential to contribute as a 3 & D guy, eventually.
Tempering my expectations though, as he's so young and will have a lot to learn.

[Eaglenole2002]

One thing to keep in mind while projecting Bryant’s rookie year defense is just how much more complicated NBA defenses are compared to college. Physically he can probably be just fine, but how quickly can he process it at an NBA level. He did this very well in college, so there’s reason for optimism.

[LeBowen]

but how quickly can he process it at an NBA level.

I doubt his processing will be worse than Devin's or Keldon's.

[TekXX]

Is this guy the Primo project round 2? Hopefully minus the show and tell.

[DAF86]

What is the track record of players who put up mediocre stats in college and became good players in the NBA?

Castle won RoY last year.

[scott]

I’m gonna at least wait until he plays in a summer league game before I join the “Bryant should be starting” bandwagon :lol

Our recent track record of picking “promising” guys who were bench players in college is… not great.

[jesterbobman]

Carter Bryant had limited box score numbers, and a usage rate that's concerning - most eventual 3&D guys have higher usage in College. The rate stats were very positive, especially with steals and blocks. I think expecting him to be good the first year is a recipe for disappointment - almost all rookies are net negative players.

Something like Jaylen Wells would be a huge win as a rookie year.

[sfernald]

I’m gonna at least wait until he plays in a summer league game before I join the “Bryant should be starting” bandwagon :lol

Our recent track record of picking “promising” guys who were bench players in college is… not great.

Yes guys pls let’s see how he does in summer league before we write him off for the year. It doesn’t tell us everything but it can tell us a lot.

[JMarkJohns]

What is the track record of players who put up mediocre stats in college and became good players in the NBA?

He didn’t score a lot, but I wouldn’t call 4 rpg, 1.9 Stocks, 37% from range in 19 mpg mediocre stats. He played a role, but I can tell you this, he and that role were a catalyst for Arizona turning its season around.

And, his percentage from range increased peaking in March at 50% in the conference tournament.

Per 36 that’s going to be 12 points, 7.5 rebounds, 3.5 stocks.

Not Carter’s fault Tommy Lloyd went with a veteran heavy starting unit with all upperclassmen and 2 seniors.

[OldMan88]

I seem to remember Sean Elliot commenting that Arizona didn’t like to play freshmen. If so, this explains the limited playing time CB received.

[JMarkJohns]

I seem to remember Sean Elliot commenting that Arizona didn’t like play freshmen. If so, this explains the limited playing time CB received.

In 4 years and multiple 4 and 5* Euros and multiple domestic McD AA and 4* preps, Tommy Lloyd has yet to start a single one, or play one more than 22 minutes.

Next year will be a change in that, starting 2 McD AAs alongside three seniors.

We’ll see what works best. IMO, Carter should have been a 27-28 mpg player by Conference because he was better and more dynamic than the senior starting in front of him or more playable both ends than the junior at SF. But he started slow and Arizona struggled, so Tommy leaned into leadership.

[Uriel]

Castle won RoY last year.
Castle was one of UConn's stars when he was in college.

[exstatic]

Castle was one of UConn's stars when he was in college.

He was a bench player who averaged 11.1 pts. He was in no way a star at UConn. If he had even been in their top 3 options, he probably would have gone #1 overall

[Obstructed_View]

I seem to remember Sean Elliot commenting that Arizona didn’t like to play freshmen. If so, this explains the limited playing time CB received.
NIL changed how players get time. Guys getting more money likely get more PT

[Trueblood]

Is this guy the Primo project round 2? Hopefully minus the show and tell.

I don't think so. IIRC Primo graduated a year early which made him eligible for being drafted a year earlier than most of the others. I read that the Spurs took him so early because they believed that if he had been the same age as the others during his freshman season he would have been a top pick.

I guess where they are similar because they were both drafted based off of perceived untapped potential but CB's situation was more based on his limited playing time at Arizona, not his age. The biggest difference though is that CB was seen by the basketball community as a lottery pick and view his draft position as a steal for the Spurs. So I don't think he'll have the same learning curve that Primo did.

[spurs10]

Look forward to seeing SL. Carter is a player we need, a 3 & D player who may or may not be ready. If not, we need someone who is ready.

[Uriel]

He was a bench player who averaged 11.1 pts. He was in no way a star at UConn. If he had even been in their top 3 options, he probably would have gone #1 overall
Uh, did you even watch March Madness? He started for UConn through the tournament. The commentators were calling him one of the team’s stars.

[scott]

He was a bench player who averaged 11.1 pts. He was in no way a star at UConn. If he had even been in their top 3 options, he probably would have gone #1 overall

Castle started 30 of 34 games for UCONN.

[JMarkJohns]

NIL changed how players get time. Guys getting more money likely get more PT

It changed it even more than simply transactional.

You now need to maintain agent relationships. Promise an agent you’ll feature their transfer, and you better do it. If you don’t, you’ll be out cold on that agents next options.

This is more of a Transfer Portal element of NIL, but agents came with NIL.

[Mr. Body]

He was a bench player who averaged 11.1 pts. He was in no way a star at UConn. If he had even been in their top 3 options, he probably would have gone #1 overall

C'mon now. Castle was a starter at UConn. He was arguably their second most important player. And he won more Freshman of the month awards in the Big East than any player ever has, and that's a huge number of great players. He was a star.

[BacktoBasics]

Offense aside Bryant is going to have to learn the speed of the game defensively. Our rotations are horrible. Its gonna take a half a season to get anywhere near being able to handle game speed.

[Mr. Body]

Offense aside Bryant is going to have to learn the speed of the game defensively. Our rotations are horrible. Its gonna take a half a season to get anywhere near being able to handle game speed.

Yeah one of his problems is he blows assignments and doesn't know what to do. Even in the recent scrimmage clip he gets nailed by a double screen he should have seen coming. He's great at recovering, as he did there, but he has a lot of seasoning. I fully believe he's going to improve a ton, but it will take time.

[Degoat]

I’m going to try and temper my expectations for Carter in SL play, but I am excited to see what he brings! Stangely, I Feel like Ingram is going to play solid today

[Obstructed_View]

It changed it even more than simply transactional.

You now need to maintain agent relationships. Promise an agent you’ll feature their transfer, and you better do it. If you don’t, you’ll be out cold on that agents next options.

This is more of a Transfer Portal element of NIL, but agents came with NIL.
Well said. Nice to see you, JmJ.

[Obstructed_View]

I’m going to try and temper my expectations for Carter in SL play, but I am excited to see what he brings! Stangely, I Feel like Ingram is going to play solid today

Ingram is the veteran right now. Talent will start to make a difference over the next couple of weeks.

[Obstructed_View]

Weirdest two-man game ever. :lol

[JMarkJohns]

Well said. Nice to see you, JmJ.

Always good to be chatting Arizona hoops or pro basketball here.

IMO, Carter is a longer-term solution, not short-term fix.

But he has so much of what you’d like. But like Knicks with Toppin getting impatient, but Pacers reaping rewards, give some development and he will be an impact player.

[Mr. Body]

I got yelled at upthread for suggesting that Carter Bryant needed a shit-ton of work and would probably live in Austin for a while. He's going to be fine. It's going to take a while.

[JMarkJohns]

I got yelled at upthread for suggesting that Carter Bryant needed a shit-ton of work and would probably live in Austin for a while. He's going to be fine. It's going to take a while.

Yeah. You saw a lot of the discussion points I made, especially defensively. Anyone saying Carter is a true 3/D player vs a 3/D prospect is doing the reality of Carter’s situation a disservice. He’s stiff hipped and doesn’t move initially with explosion, especially laterally, so he gets blown by or fouls a lot right now. He has elite recovery, so I think the issue can be fixed by focusing on quick twitch development. But it was rough to see so many fouls so quick vs summer leaguers.

[Dejounte]

It’s why I wanted Powell tbh. He’s not stiff hipped and can stay in front of guys. Hopefully Carter can learn to stay farther from his man instead of guarding them so close. He’s got a nice standing reach so there’s no reason to guard them tight.

[rascal]

McNeeley and Sorber are two players I would have drafted over Bryant. Let's see how those guys look compared to Bryant.

[Atl Spur]

I personally like that the kid already understands perspective at such a young age. Minute rice posters never learn but it does make for great message board content! Nice prospect….PROSPECT not proven commodity at 19 yrs old.

[Knoxxx]

Bryant should be a nicer fit for the Spurs than Ace Bailey re position of need, since there is only one basketball.

[Spurs Homer]

he passed the eye test for me...just give him a little time...

[BatManu20]

1941656961017122952

[ginobilized]

Such a positive, honest and articulate self-assessment by a 19 year old.
He should develop well if he can maintain that outlook. Might take a couple years, but, he'll be a solid contributor.

[onechance87]

bryant should play in every summer league game this summer.Got alot to learn and develop

[Degoat]

bryant should play in every summer league game this summer.Got alot to learn and develop

I’m afraid the spurs give him the day off today lol I hope not I want to watch him today.

[sfernald]

bryant should play in every summer league game this summer.Got alot to learn and develop

He really deserves a decent distributor on the court with him. Hopefully Harper gets out there and they play a little more organized.

[Mr. Body]

He sounds like that kind of glib, charismatic kid who knows how to charm the adults but never actually does the work, lol. I'm wrong about this, but really getting those vibes.

[8FOR!3]

He reminded me a little bit of Klay Thompson at times in the highlights. Not saying he will ever be anywhere near the shooter or player Klay was just saying he moves a little like him on offense, his release reminds me of his as well. I like his attitude I think he will overachieve compared to what people expect of him.

[OldMan88]

If you watched any of Carters pre draft videos you’d of noticed that most of his best defensive plays were follow blocks when the offensive player passes him but he follows and blocks the shot.

[JMarkJohns]

Tone in this thread already crazy bi-polar.

*whistles*

“all ya need is just a little patience…”

Although this mood fervor is exactly why the NBA needs a two year rule. Kid had 2 million bucks awaiting him at Arizona, but was hearing “lottery”… off the bench at 6-4 and raw as hell. NBA needs to let colleges pay to develop players. No reason to keep a 1 year rule when some players in college are earning more than NBA vets.

[couchman]

I was in favor of taking Carter or Sorber at 14 and I’ve said all along that he needs a year in Austin to develop.
I’m excited about his future but also sober about his immediate impact, which will be zero.

[spurs10]

What about Juzang who got waived by Utah today? We passed on every available 3 & D/ shooter out there.

[CorrectCrusader]

Tone in this thread already crazy bi-polar.

*whistles*

“all ya need is just a little patience…”

Although this mood fervor is exactly why the NBA needs a two year rule. Kid had 2 million bucks awaiting him at Arizona, but was hearing “lottery”… off the bench at 6-4 and raw as hell. NBA needs to let colleges pay to develop players. No reason to keep a 1 year rule when some players in college are earning more than NBA vets.

Arizona already wasn't developing him...

[JMarkJohns]

Arizona already wasn't developing him...

It was, just slowly, due largely to Carter foul rate and a trio of upperclassmen in frontcourt. He was promised the starting SF next season plus an increased role on offense.

His minutes went from 12 mpg early to 22 mpg by March, and he went from having a reputation as a streaky shooter as a prep, to consistent 34% shooter the first two months to over 40% the last three as his minutes and role increased. He was eventually tasked with defending the opposition’s top forward by February.

By the way, I won’t tell you about the Spurs.

Don’t tell me about Arizona Basketball. Cool.

Patience with Carter is ideal. Upside of Carter is ideal. I recommend the ideal path.

[RC_Drunkford]

What about Juzang who got waived by Utah today? We passed on every available 3 & D/ shooter out there.

we don't want to break up the friendship crew

[Jordan Jackson]

Way too much overreaction. He plays like a rookie. Shocking, right?

It’s summer league - I won’t start caring until he plays actual NBA games. Same goes for Harper.

I mean, a lot of people around here swore Kawhi was a role player type like Bruce Bowen when he was drafted.

[south side spur]

It was, just slowly, due largely to Carter foul rate and a trio of upperclassmen in frontcourt. He was promised the starting SF next season plus an increased role on offense.

His minutes went from 12 mpg early to 22 mpg by March, and he went from having a reputation as a streaky shooter as a prep, to consistent 34% shooter the first two months to over 40% the last three as his minutes and role increased. He was eventually tasked with defending the opposition’s top forward by February.

By the way, I won’t tell you about the Spurs.

Don’t tell me about Arizona Basketball. Cool.

Patience with Carter is ideal. Upside of Carter is ideal. I recommend the ideal path.

These supposed Spurs fans forgot all about Dejounte’s atrocious 2nd Summer League.

Murray 2017 Summer League

4 games
6 ppg, 3.8 apg, 5.5 rpg, 1.5 spg, 4 to/g

[TekXX]

He'll get all the time he needs, and i do hope he pans out. One thing the Spurs don't do is give up on their pet projects even if it's obvious they should.

[Raven]

couldn't even get a shot off, F

[CorrectCrusader]

It was, just slowly, due largely to Carter foul rate and a trio of upperclassmen in frontcourt. He was promised the starting SF next season plus an increased role on offense.

His minutes went from 12 mpg early to 22 mpg by March, and he went from having a reputation as a streaky shooter as a prep, to consistent 34% shooter the first two months to over 40% the last three as his minutes and role increased. He was eventually tasked with defending the opposition’s top forward by February.

By the way, I won’t tell you about the Spurs.

Don’t tell me about Arizona Basketball. Cool.

Patience with Carter is ideal. Upside of Carter is ideal. I recommend the ideal path.

You cooked me

[Ed Helicopter Jones]

Having watched him play in college a little bit I can tell you the kid has the tools for the NBA. Once he develops I think he’ll be pretty darn good.

[Dverde]

We have that KJ/Vassell/Sochan/Barnes log jam. More than fine with him going to Austin to develop. If he was ready to cook he would have gone sooner in the draft.

[couchman]

He sounds like that kind of glib, charismatic kid who knows how to charm the adults but never actually does the work, lol. I'm wrong about this, but really getting those vibes.

I hate to say it but I had the same thoughts.
We’ll see if he has the fire in him to do the work required to turn his talents into a good player.
I remain optimistic

[thOOdee]

Hopefully this kids got the fire, because optically when he is hitting, he straight up looks like a young tmac the ways he moves.

[sfernald]

Tonight hopefully we get another look at him.

[Russ]

I was somewhat impressed with Bryant's pull up game.

That was something he supposedly did not have.

That said, he'll have to learn to hit NBA threes to reach his potential.

That said, he sends off a good vibe.

[Leetonidas]

Summer league is a fun time killer when there's no basketball on and it's nice to get a first look at our new players but by now everyone should know to take these glorified exhibitions with a huge grain of salt, both good and bad games.

[BackHome]

Yeah, not worried at all as the kid is a true Freshman and is the 14th pick so new he would be needing G League reps. He will be called up time for time, and when he is he just needs to focus on is "Play Defense, Don't Foul, and Hit the Wide open 3 Ball".

[BatManu20]

1942779959627464991

[TimmyBuckets]

He's probably going to get some G-League runs to boost this confidence, but his defensive chops are there.

[BatManu20]

1942799169175052715

[DAF86]

I swear he had more than 2 blocks.

[Brazil]

I don't want to read too much in summer league obviously but Carter debuts are showing that it will take time for him to contribute posivitely, a lot of work in front of him

[Uriel]

I wonder if we’re seeing with our own eyes why he “fell” to #14. Other GM’s must have seen him in private workouts, concluded he still has a ways to go, and decided to go in a different direction.

[exstatic]

I wonder if we’re seeing with our own eyes why he “fell” to #14. Other GM’s must have seen him in private workouts, concluded he still has a ways to go, and decided to go in a different direction.

Everyone outside of the top 3-4 in almost any draft has a ways to go. That’s nothing new or unexpected. Players are drafted on their toolset and processing speed.

[Baam]

Doesn't have that it factor on D that guys like Kawhi, Dyson Daniels or Herb Jones had from the get go... Lowers his ceiling quite a bit if he doesn't have an elite skill.

[Uriel]

Everyone outside of the top 3-4 in almost any draft has a ways to go. That’s nothing new or unexpected. Players are drafted on their toolset and processing speed.
Some have more of a ways to go than others.

[Raven]

think it's safe to say, getting a positive rotation player from him by year 4, will be a gargantuan task

[Mr. Body]

I wonder if we’re seeing with our own eyes why he “fell” to #14. Other GM’s must have seen him in private workouts, concluded he still has a ways to go, and decided to go in a different direction.

They just watched him in college. He probably works out more than fine, where his athleticism and skill set are restricted to small categories (individual, two on two, three on three). If you spent any time watching him in a college team setting, you knew he was a long, long way off. There's a reason I keep comparing him to Primo in this regard. He scored six points and couldn't even average 20 minutes a game. We won't know if this will pay off for another two or three years.

[rjv]

Summer league is a fun time killer when there's no basketball on and it's nice to get a first look at our new players but by now everyone should know to take these glorified exhibitions with a huge grain of salt, both good and bad games.


everyone should know but clearly there are quite a few who prefer to make broad conclusions off the smallest of samples.

[OldMan88]

You have to consider that he’s out there on the floor with a guaranteed contract, playing against a bunch of very, very hungry players trying to earn a shot at getting a spot on someone’s training camp roster. Plus, you have no idea what the coaching staff is telling him to work on specifically. We’ll really only know how good he might be when we see him in the preseason and early season games before the G-League starts playing. I think we’ll see him spending some time in Austin to get more playing time. His legs obviously aren't ready for the NBA yet. That’s why most of his shots are short.

[Mnky]

He'll be alright. People still haven't learned summer league isn't the evaluation site. He was a great pick at 14. I thought it was too high for the Spurs to take him consensus wise, but I'm glad they did. As far as projections go, he's without a doubt the best fit in available forwards.

[Raven]

You have to consider that he’s out there on the floor with a guaranteed contract, playing against a bunch of very, very hungry players trying to earn a shot at getting a spot on someone’s training camp roster. Plus, you have no idea what the coaching staff is telling him to work on specifically. We’ll really only know how good he might be when we see him in the preseason and early season games before the G-League starts playing. I think we’ll see him spending some time in Austin to get more playing time. His legs obviously aren't ready for the NBA yet. That’s why most of his shots are short.

thought he looked jittery like he wants to do a lot, so your argument about hungry players, i don't really see it.

[DAF86]

The thing with Bryant is that he's supossed to have a role playing skillset. It's hard to shine playing with D-leaguers under that role. Playing with NBA talent, he will probably look better.

[CorrectCrusader]

It's funny how every time this year people freak out about the summer league as if it matters.

[Mr. Body]

The thing with Bryant is that he's supossed to have a role playing skillset. It's hard to shine playing with D-leaguers under that role. Playing with NBA talent, he will probably look better.

People focus on his offense, such I don't care too much about right now. The issue is his defense, getting out of position, lacking awareness, fouling way too much.

Those are the obvious things that need lots of work. We knew that coming in.

[DAF86]

People focus on his offense, such I don't care too much about right now. The issue is his defense, getting out of position, lacking awareness, fouling way too much.

Those are the obvious things that need lots of work. We knew that coming in.

Those things are workable. I liked the glimpses he showed on defense, mainly his shot blocking and rim protection. He has a knack for coming off the weak side and altering shots.

[OldMan88]

People focus on his offense, such I don't care too much about right now. The issue is his defense, getting out of position, lacking awareness, fouling way too much.

Those are the obvious things that need lots of work. We knew that coming in.

Very true. Looking at his defensive highlights, it appeared to me a lot of his stops were timing based. He’s obviously not adapted to the speed of the NBA game and that’s got his defensive timing off.

[Mugen]

This kid is gonna be nasty tbh.

[sfernald]

People focus on his offense, such I don't care too much about right now. The issue is his defense, getting out of position, lacking awareness, fouling way too much.

Those are the obvious things that need lots of work. We knew that coming in.

lol perhaps a bit premature? Dude looks like he will be elite defensively with his steals and blocks and the way he covers guys end to end. And I love the way he communicates. And he’s a fucking perfectionist you can see it in the way he cares so much. Kid is just warming up. But no doubt with his size and athleticism and zeal he’s gonna be a monster.

[Mr. Body]

lol perhaps a bit premature? Dude looks like he will be elite defensively with his steals and blocks and the way he covers guys end to end. And I love the way he communicates. And he’s a fucking perfectionist you can see it in the way he cares so much. Kid is just warming up. But no doubt with his size and athleticism and zeal he’s gonna be a monster.

Like I keep saying, and others have said, but apparently you're not listening, he gets out of position, isn't reading things up to level yet. Defense isn't all about chase-down blocks, you understand? He's having to chase down because he's getting picked or off position.

[sfernald]

Like I keep saying, and others have said, but apparently you're not listening, he gets out of position, isn't reading things up to level yet. Defense isn't all about chase-down blocks, you understand? He's having to chase down because he's getting picked or off position.

Did you see the game he just played? Completely different player. Must have been nervous and getting accustomed to the speed. Had no problem staying in front of guys. Looks like he’ll be an incredible defender and a total menace on the ball and the blocks this time were mostly help blocks. Kid was everywhere and definitely looked the part this time. Legler couldn’t say enough good things about him. Of course he has tons to work on but all we can look for in summer league is the sparks and they were flying tonight.

[Russ]

He'll be to the Spurs what Michael Cooper was to the Showtime Lakers

[ismael-robert]

Agree with Dad-body, he was out of position a lot but I think it'll get cleaned up mostly by time Nov rolls around

[Obstructed_View]

He got blown by a few times tonight as well, but he really competes.

Danny Green and Bruce Bowen had to decide to put in the work to be three and D guys. This kid was working at it in college. Not remotely worried about his development.

[jesterbobman]

Having only watched highlights...Carter wasn't faultless defensively, but has tools, plays with intensity, and seems (off court etc) to understand that his path to success is as an elite low usage wing, that can develop more over time. No real surprise. Development over the course of the offseason, understanding the right level of separation for NBA athletes (give a bit of room, not too much) seem manageable things to improve on to become effective over time.

[Raven]

if you're not worried, hats off to you

[JMarkJohns]

As I said in first post…

Athletic deflection/shot-attempt defender
Struggles to defend further out
Maybe a bit timid on ideal shots
Maybe has some facilitation in him, but largely untapped
Ideal Vertical Explosivity, Slightly Less Ideal Laterally

Overall, I’m a big believer in see it to be it and felt Carter needed one more year at Arizona to fully idealize and realize what his skills were. But I think all those areas of issue can be worked through. He he to slow down and trust, respond, not just react.

IMO, he’s meant for years 2.5-4 of his rookie contract. Maybe he is an NBA impact player earlier than that, but speed of the game, fit, and decision making will take some time to build up to athletically, reactionally.

[scottspurs]

Carter Bryant needs a full season maybe two in the G league. Love his effort on defense. That’s the most important aspect of defense is trying hard. He has that for sure. Fun to watch on that side of the ball even if the IQ is lacking. Tremendous athlete. Not a high level processor of the game though. Offensively it’s pretty ugly. He is going to need lots of reps to build confidence in his shot and understand where to be. He is a project. Hopefully this project turns into something unlike Luka Samancic, Blake Wesley, Malaki Branham, Lonnie Walker and Josh Primo. He has a lot of tools can the Spurs developmental staff put it together. I’m extremely encouraged by the hustle and effort. Extremely worried about the basketball IQ.

[Spurs Homer]

Carter Bryant needs a full season maybe two in the G league. Love his effort on defense. That’s the most important aspect of defense is trying hard. He has that for sure. Fun to watch on that side of the ball even if the IQ is lacking. Tremendous athlete. Not a high level processor of the game though. Offensively it’s pretty ugly. He is going to need lots of reps to build confidence in his shot and understand where to be. He is a project. Hopefully this project turns into something unlike Luka Samancic, Blake Wesley, Malaki Branham, Lonnie Walker and Josh Primo. He has a lot of tools can the Spurs developmental staff put it together. I’m extremely encouraged by the hustle and effort. Extremely worried about the basketball IQ.

If he has to spend a full season or two in G-league - he is a bust

gtfo

i see very very few g league games in his future - if any

[TimDunkem]

Oh noes the new kid with one year of college was out of position!!!

He will be fine.

[scottspurs]

If he has to spend a full season or two in G-league - he is a bust

gtfo

i see very very few g league games in his future - if any

The Spurs would be doing him wrong if they don’t let him get minutes in the G League. First off the Spurs are not making the playoffs with Carter Bryant in the rotation the this season. He is just not ready. If you don’t see how raw he is you have some serious Spurs blinders on. Don’t be such a Homer lol

[sfernald]

Carter Bryant needs a full season maybe two in the G league. Love his effort on defense. That’s the most important aspect of defense is trying hard. He has that for sure. Fun to watch on that side of the ball even if the IQ is lacking. Tremendous athlete. Not a high level processor of the game though. Offensively it’s pretty ugly. He is going to need lots of reps to build confidence in his shot and understand where to be. He is a project. Hopefully this project turns into something unlike Luka Samancic, Blake Wesley, Malaki Branham, Lonnie Walker and Josh Primo. He has a lot of tools can the Spurs developmental staff put it together. I’m extremely encouraged by the hustle and effort. Extremely worried about the basketball IQ.

Low basketball IQ? He seems raw but that’s not one thing I’m seeing. Comparing him to Wesley and Branham and Primo is nonsense. He’s actually a very intuitive player on defense. Do you see him talking out there on the court and guiding his teammates? He’s got a little Draymond Green in him. I feel like some people are judging him on highlights and not watching the whole game here.

He doesn’t have much of a bag on offense but he was still trying stuff. If he cleans up a few things, plays that level of d and gets to the point of where he can make open 3 pointers he will be a great player for spurs this year. I could easily see him ending up being better than sochan and castle if things play right. His shot looks so much more pure already than those guys. And he has a higher ceiling with his god given tools. Seems like the kind of kid who won’t be satisfied until he realizes it too.

[picnroll]

This kid is raw, he needs g-league minutes. Not 5 minutes in blow out Spurs games.

[scottspurs]

Low basketball IQ? He seems raw but that’s not one thing I’m seeing. Comparing him to Wesley and Branham and Primo is nonsense. He’s actually a very intuitive player on defense. Do you see him talking out there on the court and guiding his teammates? He’s got a little Draymond Green in him. I feel like some people are judging him on highlights and not watching the whole game here.

He doesn’t have much of a bag on offense but he was still trying stuff. If he cleans up a few things, plays that level of d and gets to the point of where he can make open 3 pointers he will be a great player for spurs this year. I could easily see him ending up being better than sochan and castle if things play right. His shot looks so much more pure already than those guys. And he has a higher ceiling with his god given tools. Seems like the kind of kid who won’t be satisfied until he realizes it too.

I hope you are right I just don’t see a rotational player for this season.

[sfernald]

I hope you are right I just don’t see a rotational player for this season.

Fair enough. I think Saturday’s game will be telling. Let’s see how he does trying to lock down Cooper Flagg. Now that will be a challenge for him!

[OldMan88]

Agree he’ll need at least some time in the DLeague. His spacing was better last night. His development will be very interesting to watch and I think he’ll turn into a solid 3&D guy. He’s still really jacked up out there. When he settles down, his shot will start falling.

[scottspurs]

Fair enough. I think Saturday’s game will be telling. Let’s see how he does trying to lock down Cooper Flagg. Now that will be a challenge for him!

He played against Duke twice in college and it was not pretty against Cooper Flagg but hoping to see improvement

[sfernald]

He played against Duke twice in college and it was not pretty against Cooper Flagg but hoping to see improvement

Cooper Flagg looked pretty damn rough out there too in summer league lol. But yeah I bet these guys will be battling their whole careers. Not sure you could build a better player in a lab to guard Flagg in theory. Will be fun to watch from the beginning.

[mudd]

how's Maxime looking right about now?

[Poolboy5623]

how's Maxime looking right about now?

16/5 in his debut. He looked good.

[Spurs Homer]

The Spurs would be doing him wrong if they don’t let him get minutes in the G League. First off the Spurs are not making the playoffs with Carter Bryant in the rotation the this season. He is just not ready. If you don’t see how raw he is you have some serious Spurs blinders on. Don’t be such a Homer lol

ok lets remember this for later in the season…

if you have watched basketball for even a small amount of time- it is very obvious when a player has skills…

he will not spend much time away from the regular spurs team and if he does he might as well go the route of branham/wesley
spurs gave them time and more time and now finally saw the writing on the wall

any other team would throw bryant on the floor and allow him to make mistakes and by seasons end he would be contributing


if they cannot see that- then its a failure

we will see soon

[Splits]

I see we've reached that point in the offseason where, after a few scrimmages without fans and one semi-competitive game, it is time to jump to conclusions on the future of our draft picks.

Never change ST

[SpursFan86]

Of course he is raw. No one should've expected him to come out and dominate Summer League :lol

The big deciding factor in whether he gets much time (by "much time", that still likely means something like 10-15 mpg tops) in the big leagues this year will be his jumper. I think his defense is already at a level where he can be a positive on that end, but he needs to demonstrate that he's a very capable spot-up shooter.

The most likely outcome is that he spends the large majority of the first half of the season in the G-League. Hopefully as the season progresses he develops and ends up being able to play spot minutes with the main group.

[Mitch Cumsteen]

I wouldn't worry for one second about this guy on offense. I don't care if he ever develops any sort of "bag." He doesn't need one. He's going to stand in the corner gathering dust like Bruce Bowen and wait for the ball to find him. Danny Green could hardly dribble and stayed in the league for 14 years. The Spurs have enough creators on offense. If he develops anything beyond a pump fake and pull up, I'd consider it a win as long as he can knock down an open three and lock up somebody on defense.

[KobesAchilles]

I wouldn't worry for one second about this guy on offense. I don't care if he ever develops any sort of "bag." He doesn't need one. He's going to stand in the corner gathering dust like Bruce Bowen and wait for the ball to find him. Danny Green could hardly dribble and stayed in the league for 14 years. The Spurs have enough creators on offense. If he develops anything beyond a pump fake and pull up, I'd consider it a win as long as he can knock down an open three and lock up somebody on defense.
Yup. Fox, Wemby, Castle, and Harper all need the ball. What the team needs is a wing defender that doesn’t need the ball a lot and can make an open shot when kicked to him. Carter will be that guy.

[scott]

Liked his communication on the defensive end. That’s typically a sign of decent BBIQ.

Anyway… it’s funny to see the same people who talk about patience with some players come in and overreact to CB’s first summer league games.

[Aggie Hoopsfan]

It's hilarious people are pearl clutching about his offense.

All he'll have to do is stay on the perimeter in a corner or swing one direction or the other for the open three. There will be no need for him to put the ball on the floor or create.

[baseline bum]

It's hilarious people are pearl clutching about his offense.

All he'll have to do is stay on the perimeter in a corner or swing one direction or the other for the open three. There will be no need for him to put the ball on the floor or create.

It's one of the things that drives me most nuts about Vassell. Just take the open three and quit trying to put the ball on the floor when you suck at it. Bryant should know his role is just fire from deep and let Fox, Castle, and Harper be the playmakers attacking off the dribble.

[sfernald]

Liked his communication on the defensive end. That’s typically a sign of decent BBIQ.

Anyway… it’s funny to see the same people who talk about patience with some players come in and overreact to CB’s first summer league games.

We are all a little OVER THE TOP on our reactions here of course it’s summer league right?! This is what’s so fun about this forum, people take sides strongly and it’s fun to watch how it works out. I know I’m buying stock on this kid, but I mean I get that people could have doubts from past drafts like primo and such.

So far the improvement from game to game is what I’ve really noticed. That’s just what you want to see. Wait till the next game when he’s getting wide open catch and shoot shots from Harper.

[KobesAchilles]

What would it take (in your guys mind) for him to completely replace Vassell in the starting line up? Bc for me as long as he shows effort on D and learns how to play defense as the year goes on and makes the open 3 on a consistent basis. I’d have him as a starter on our team.

[sfernald]

It's one of the things that drives me most nuts about Vassell. Just take the open three and quit trying to put the ball on the floor when you suck at it. Bryant should know his role is just fire from deep and let Fox, Castle, and Harper be the playmakers attacking off the dribble.

I’d like for him to eventually be able to attack a closeout, but I’m not expecting that this year.

[Jordan Jackson]

Did someone claim Bryant was low iq? He was anchoring the defense. Pretty vocal about it too calling out the schemes.

Some of you should be pinked. Do we still do that around here? Need to bring that back.

[sfernald]

What would it take (in your guys mind) for him to completely replace Vassell in the starting line up? Bc for me as long as he shows effort on D and learns how to play defense as the year goes on and makes the open 3 on a consistent basis. I’d have him as a starter on our team.

I think he’s a perfect fit between Harper and Wemby so not very much to me. In preseason show he can be an excellent defender (as he’s showing possible) and maybe make a league average or higher percent of his catch and shoot threes. Like so many others, I don’t really like vassell on this team, maybe as a scoring 6th man.

The thing is this kid is burning to be better than kawhi. That’s literally his one goal right now. Think about that for a minute.

[Raven]

What would it take (in your guys mind) for him to completely replace Vassell in the starting line up? Bc for me as long as he shows effort on D and learns how to play defense as the year goes on and makes the open 3 on a consistent basis. I’d have him as a starter on our team.

i'm more interested on if he can replace ingram in austin, because from the start, it really doesn't look good

[spurraider21]

i dont want to overreact but i think he will be the greatest defensive player of all time but the worst offensive player of all time

[Raven]

i dont want to overreact but i think he will be the greatest defensive player of all time but the worst offensive player of all time

i agree but like hasheem thabeet, he won't play enough minutes before fouling out, to see it

[Brazil]

not reading too much into it obviously but Carter SL is quite atrocious tbh... I don't remember a player playing meaningful minutes for the Spurs having dat kind of SL, I'm probably wrong but I don't remember honestly.

He looks more G league ready than NBA

[Brazil]

What would it take (in your guys mind) for him to completely replace Vassell in the starting line up? Bc for me as long as he shows effort on D and learns how to play defense as the year goes on and makes the open 3 on a consistent basis. I’d have him as a starter on our team.

to replace Vassell ? 3 to 4 years min :lol

[scott]

What would it take (in your guys mind) for him to completely replace Vassell in the starting line up? Bc for me as long as he shows effort on D and learns how to play defense as the year goes on and makes the open 3 on a consistent basis. I’d have him as a starter on our team.

I'd like to just start with him proving to be a viable NBA player.

As much as I don't like Vassell, there is no question that he is a viable player in this league. Carter has proven even less than Malaki Branham at this point (and that's okay)

[Brazil]

I'd like to just start with him proving to be a viable NBA player.

As much as I don't like Vassell, there is no question that he is a viable player in this league. Carter has proven even less than Malaki Branham at this point (and that's okay)

At least Malaki could score the basket in the summer league :lol

[poopbox]

What would it take (in your guys mind) for him to completely replace Vassell in the starting line up? Bc for me as long as he shows effort on D and learns how to play defense as the year goes on and makes the open 3 on a consistent basis. I’d have him as a starter on our team.

Not sure he is ready to be a starter on the defensive side of the ball yet. He might be good but like all rookies he will need to get bigger and stronger to be able to handle the really good perimeter players in the league. But I would say as soon as I was confident in him not getting picked on by the other team defensively I would have him in over Devin. We need someone who knows their role is to shoot open 3's and backdoor cut to the rim and that is how they score 70% of their points. Devin thinks he is some offensive focal point, which would be much better suited for the bench.

[Seventyniner]

I would be far more worried about a #1 option, especially a ball-handler type, looking bad on offense in SL than a projected role player like CB.

Role players are more elevated by their teammates, while #1 ball-handlers can do a lot on their own.

[J_Paco]

Not sure he should start on day one, but his player profile is something we've been missing since Nephew left town.

His athleticism and defensive effort is an absolute breath of fresh air on this team. As much as I wanted Sorber, this kid could be the starting SF for the next decade.

[spurraider21]

one of the main reasons i was gung ho over john collins was the need for somebody who can play alongside victor that can provide some weakside rim protection. not that collins is some elite shotblocker but he can provide some of that. its one of the things sochan just doesnt do. anytime wemby flies over to contest a shot, we've had a tough time giving up offensive rebounds and easy putbacks. and we needed that from a non-center. very encouraging to see that type of activity from bryant yesterday, could be a huge gamechanger to have a roaming defensive playmaker on the wing. right now sochan/castle profile as very good man defenders but no so much in the off ball playmaking

[mystargtr34]

Carter Bryant has quite a similar physical profile to Aaron Gordon and PJ Washington. Similar height, standing reach, weight. Still think Bryant is more a 3/4 where as Gordon is a straight 4 and PJ is a 4/3. My point being Carter should be able to play 4 some next to Wemby.

[Dejounte]

Carter Bryant has quite a similar physical profile to Aaron Gordon and PJ Washington. Similar height, standing reach, weight. Still think Bryant is more a 3/4 where as Gordon is a straight 4 and PJ is a 4/3. My point being Carter should be able to play 4 some next to Wemby.

not sure why that’s even a question at this point. He was clearly drafted to be our 4

[couchman]

I'm seeing a 4 much more than a 3 so far

[sfernald]

So you guys see something like fox/harper/castle/bryant/wemby as a real possibility?

[dbestpro]

Bryant is going to spend the year in Austin. He has a lot of work to do, and he won't get it by riding the bench in SA.

[Raven]

Carter Bryant has quite a similar physical profile to Aaron Gordon and PJ Washington. Similar height, standing reach, weight. Still think Bryant is more a 3/4 where as Gordon is a straight 4 and PJ is a 4/3. My point being Carter should be able to play 4 some next to Wemby.

I found that to be quite laughable. he will never play the 4 except when mitch goes full retard 4 years from now.

[LeBowen]

I found that to be quite laughable. he will never play the 4 except when mitch goes full retard 4 years from now.

You really can't help yourself, you simply must have the worst takes in every topic.

[mystargtr34]

I found that to be quite laughable. he will never play the 4 except when mitch goes full retard 4 years from now.

Glad you got something out of it

[Knoxxx]

Stop arguing about nothing. Carter is a natural SF but in today’s game of lots of small ball, sure he can play some PF. He can guard the 1-4 positions as they say. Perhaps most importantly, we have another SGA stopper beyond just Sochan.

[picnroll]

Stop arguing about nothing. Carter is a natural SF but in today’s game of lots of small ball, sure he can play some PF. He can guard the 1-4 positions as they say. Perhaps most importantly, we have another SGA stopper beyond just Sochan.

In his current form Carter would foul out covering SGA in under a minute.

[picnroll]

Diplicate

[Raven]

Stop arguing about nothing. Carter is a natural SF but in today’s game of lots of small ball, sure he can play some PF. He can guard the 1-4 positions as they say. Perhaps most importantly, we have another SGA stopper beyond just Sochan.

this is one of the biggest cliche' in the nba.. almost no player can guard 1-4 and no player can guard 1-5. Most players can't stay in front of the fast pgs and those who can can't be asked to match the belly shots most pf and centers can do. I do agree he could be a perfect sga stopper though and that this would be very valuable, but down the line, today he'd foul out before 5 mins are played.

[Ariel]

Stop arguing about nothing. Carter is a natural SF but in today’s game of lots of small ball, sure he can play some PF. He can guard the 1-4 positions as they say. Perhaps most importantly, we have another SGA stopper beyond just Sochan.
I think he's a bad fit against quick guards who can also shoot, they'll either blow by him or get enough separation to take an open shot, Sochan and Castle are better suited to take those guys while Carter Bryant can take on bigger, stronger guys. In time he'll be fine there, the only concern I have with him is how real his shot is, he made 37% as a freshman but it wasn't a large sample (105 3s) and hadn't been effective before that, if that lone season was an outlier then it's going to be much more difficult for him to fit the current Spurs roster (Castle, Sochan, Harper, Fox, etc).

[thOOdee]

My biggest concern for bryant is hoping he has that fire in him and cut throat gene. Looks pretty confident and carefree out there right now, which could be both good and bad. Still way too early to tell but so far im more optimistic than not. I think this game against flagg will tell us a lot.

[KobesAchilles]

In his current form Carter would foul out covering SGA in under a minute.
Who doesn’t? Flops all over the place every fucking play. Most rigged finals I’ve seen since Wade back in 06. Tbh I miss the days when you could just foul the shit outta player like that. It’s part of the reason why I respected Manu so much even though he was a flopper. Dude got hammered and just went about his day.

[picnroll]

Who doesn’t? Flops all over the place every fucking play. Most rigged finals I’ve seen since Wade back in 06. Tbh I miss the days when you could just foul the shit outta player like that. It’s part of the reason why I respected Manu so much even though he was a flopper. Dude got hammered and just went about his day.
Spurtalks favorite whipping boy Sochan. Checks the stats.

[KobesAchilles]

Spurtalks favorite whipping boy Sochan. Checks the stats.
I did and they didn’t back your claim.

[Tyrone Jenkins]

Spurtalks favorite whipping boy Sochan. Checks the stats.
Stop the cap bruh,

Jeremy Sochan does NOT have great stats and erbody here knows this. He's a decent defender, average rebounder (about 8 per game) but he is certainly NOT a 3-D player yet shooting about 30% behind the arc after 3 years.

Reports are that he has improved his shot. Let's hope so. At this point, it's questionable if he'll be better than Carter (after his 1st 3 years) defensively.

If you're just starting to develop a decent shot after 3 years, it's doubtful you'll develop one at all. I know there are others that have, but they are probably the exception.

[Trill Clinton]

Yea no way can they stick this kid in the g league. He's a defensive menace.

[sfernald]

With regard to Bryant basically us on this thread.


https://youtu.be/eA6qiQS_5A4?si=JjhIMruC65sc4-kz

[Mugen]

I have way more faith in Bryant developing his shot than Sochan's tbh. Just the eye test alone is night and day. I think it'll come around.

[r0drig0lac]

this kid is definitely going to get some all d teams for sure

[TimDunkem]

Some people here really have been posting and sniffing their farts for so long that they actually believe they know what they're talking about. Lmao at those who think he won't be solidly in the rotation by the end of the season, or next season at the absolute worst.

Carter passes the eye test. Raw as hell but has both the physical tools, and mental toughness to be a solid player for years to come.

[sfernald]

Did you guys catch this:

Tom Orsborn: If Carter Bryant is worried about his 3-point shooting, he's doing a good job of hiding it. "It's going to fall" he said after going 1 for 9 over the last two games, including O for 5 today. "I believe that I'm going to be one of the best shooters in this league." - via Bluesky

[Ariel]

Did you guys catch this:

Tom Orsborn: If Carter Bryant is worried about his 3-point shooting, he's doing a good job of hiding it. "It's going to fall" he said after going 1 for 9 over the last two games, including O for 5 today. "I believe that I'm going to be one of the best shooters in this league." - via Bluesky
Glad he thinks so because, like I said pre-draft, that's going to be what his career hinges on. His defense was always going to be above average at least and there are other skills that would be really nice if he developed (passing, ball handling, etc), but the 3 point shot will be the difference between a (at the very least) very valuable role player for 10+ years in the league (and possibly 100+ million dollars) and being out of the league. Whatever money Chip is making in OKC, Spurs should double and consider it the cheapest investment they ever made. ASAP.

[onechance87]

Did you guys catch this:

Tom Orsborn: If Carter Bryant is worried about his 3-point shooting, he's doing a good job of hiding it. "It's going to fall" he said after going 1 for 9 over the last two games, including O for 5 today. "I believe that I'm going to be one of the best shooters in this league." - via Bluesky

Lets hope it starts falling soon,Cause he may be the missing piece to a great team forming rn.

[Jordan Jackson]

Did you guys catch this:

Tom Orsborn: If Carter Bryant is worried about his 3-point shooting, he's doing a good job of hiding it. "It's going to fall" he said after going 1 for 9 over the last two games, including O for 5 today. "I believe that I'm going to be one of the best shooters in this league." - via Bluesky

His shot isn’t broken. So, I kind of believe him. Not the best shooter in the league part - pretty unlikely (I’ll probably end up eating those words in a few years.)

Having another elite defender in the rotation will make Wemby’s life easier. One less guy he has to cover for.

[spurraider21]

i dont want to overreact but i think he will be the greatest defensive player of all time but the worst offensive player of all time
x2

[KobesAchilles]

Well he doesn’t have to shoot free throws with one hand so he’s miles ahead of Sochan as a shooter. Tbh I’m ready for him to start over Vassell. I don’t think I’ve ever seen Vassell do a chase down block in his 5 seasons with us. That would require him to actually pay attention on defense.

[024]

Great to see his defense pop out even if he is still a bit raw on that side. Can definitely round into elite form there. A bit surprised his 3 pt shooting has been so bad so far and looks like it needs work. I don't think Bryant will see much time on the floor this season. His shot doesn't need to be torn down and rebuilt like Sochan's but it's disappointing to see another Spurs project who needs a 3 point shot to get major rotation minutes. At least the Spurs have 2 shots at this with Bryant and Sochan.

[Raven]

while i buy his offence being hasheem thabeet levels, i don't quite buy his D just yet. Yes it is very entertaining and exciting to watch, but I feel like those chasedown blocks are just and-1s in real life. He touches the player a lot and coming from behind that's always a foul and i feel like he has not been able to stay in front of players enough. Also he was not able to contest flagg at all, granted that's hard for anybody, but i feel that after 5 mins flagg got the knack for how to play him and exploited him throughly thereafter.

All in all, I doubt he'll be in the rotation this year or the next, but he may pick his shooting up fast and carve a role in non-castle lineups. He's not gonna play with castle and he's not playing the 4, please forget that asap it isn't happening.

[lefty20]

1944156920526647554

3/12 against CB. 7/8 against everyone else :wow

Despite his unbelievable potential on D, I doubt he starts the year as a rotation player.

But he will certainly get his opportunities as there is a 0% chance of any team going through the regular season with perfect health. It will be crucial for him hit enough open 3s and to stop throwing those truly dumbass passes that are guaranteed to be turnovers when he finds himself on the court.

[Raven]

1944156920526647554

3/12 against CB. 7/8 against everyone else :wow

Despite his unbelievable potential on D, I doubt he starts the year as a rotation player.

But he will certainly get his opportunities as there is a 0% chance of any team going through the regular season with perfect health. It will be crucial for him hit enough open 3s and to stop throwing those truly dumbass passes that are guaranteed to be turnovers when he finds himself on the court.

what about ft caused?

[couchman]

I’m not worried about the shooting yet.
He’s overthinking it and leaving everything short.
He just needs to let it fly and he’ll get in a rhythm.

The defense is even better than expected.
The future is very bright.

Everything else is a work in progress and why I think time in Austin is perfect for him to get a ton of reps and learn.
His handle is very loose, his passing has been iffy, he isn’t finding cuts to the basket for easy buckets, he doesn’t know when to space and when to come be the pick.
Most of these are mental errors and he seems like a smart kid who will hopefully learn quickly.

[scottspurs]

Night and Day improvement from Carter Bryant guarding Cooper Flagg from when he was at Arizona to yesterday. Love to see it. At Arizona they had to pull him off Flagg. Yesterday I was wondering why he was not stalking Flagg the entire game. Kid is proving me wrong but still needs to figure out offense. Shot looks good though. He needs to work on his handle in practice and just not do that in games for now.

[picnroll]

Bryant will look even better with Wemby standing behind him in the paint. Eventually having Bryant and Sochan alternating guarding guys like SGA, Ant, etc. is going to make for some very exhausted scorers.

[BackHome]

Yeah, I cant imagine being guarded by Sochan, and Bryant for a whole game.

[Ice009]

What would it take (in your guys mind) for him to completely replace Vassell in the starting line up? Bc for me as long as he shows effort on D and learns how to play defense as the year goes on and makes the open 3 on a consistent basis. I’d have him as a starter on our team.


I’d like for him to eventually be able to attack a closeout, but I’m not expecting that this year.


Did someone claim Bryant was low iq? He was anchoring the defense. Pretty vocal about it too calling out the schemes.

Some of you should be pinked. Do we still do that around here? Need to bring that back.


I think he’s a perfect fit between Harper and Wemby so not very much to me. In preseason show he can be an excellent defender (as he’s showing possible) and maybe make a league average or higher percent of his catch and shoot threes. Like so many others, I don’t really like vassell on this team, maybe as a scoring 6th man.

The thing is this kid is burning to be better than kawhi. That’s literally his one goal right now. Think about that for a minute.


Did you guys catch this:

Tom Orsborn: If Carter Bryant is worried about his 3-point shooting, he's doing a good job of hiding it. "It's going to fall" he said after going 1 for 9 over the last two games, including O for 5 today. "I believe that I'm going to be one of the best shooters in this league." - via Bluesky

I'd much rather hear something a little delusional than him not have any confidence at all in his shooting, especially since his shooting form is also decent, he very well could be a great shooter. I don't not believe him at all. I'm more hoping he can develop some other skills on offense to make the game even easier for himself so he doesn't have to rely on the 3-ball only, but for it to be a weapon instead.

Also, I wonder how many FTs Cooper got when guarded by CB, but looking at that 3/12 from the field, he seems to have done a good job on Cooper. Hopefully like JMarkJohns says, he can get better laterally and stay with guys. If he could, he'd be a monster on defense.

Anyway, I am super excited about his defensive potential. Loved seeing all the guys play defense.

Really liked the effort Dylan also played with on the defensive end too (that excited me just a little bit more than Dylan's offense which also looked really good - patient and poised). D-Harp was saying when he got drafted he need to work on his defense and it looks like he's really taking it seriously right away.

[Russ]

Bryant will eventually become an ally-oop target second only to Wemby himself.

Passers like Harper, Castle and Fox should have a field day.

[SpursBills]

Bryant will eventually become an ally-oop target second only to Wemby himself.

Passers like Harper, Castle and Fox should have a field day.

There was one play in the second quarter I think where Harper overthrew him on a fast break cutting to the basket and already in the air ready for a monster dunk. Would have probably topped Flagg's dunk later in the game. The entire arena, which was pretty heavily pro-spurs, was ready to go nuts had he converted that.

[Russ]

There was one play in the second quarter I think where Harper overthrew him on a fast break cutting to the basket and already in the air ready for a monster dunk. Would have probably topped Flagg's dunk later in the game. The entire arena, which was pretty heavily pro-spurs, was ready to go nuts had he converted that.

What people are missing about Bryant is his potential offensive diversity.

He's not just a one-dimensional stiff like a Thybulle.

Nor will he be a pure 3&D like Bowen.

He'll likely be a complimentary offensive player like Michael Cooper with the Lakers. An athlete, a defensive dog, an energetic leader, scoring just enough in a variety of ways, including the old Coop-aloop.

[ismael-robert]

Bryant will look even better with Wemby standing behind him in the paint. Eventually having Bryant and Sochan alternating guarding guys like SGA, Ant, etc. is going to make for some very exhausted scorers.

Exactly. Maybe the chase downs are his strategy. Funnel guys to Wemby n be on their backside...shit sandwich no one will be able to escape from

[picnroll]

Hi end I could see Bryant as a Rodman-eque typer defender, effective, energetic and annoying as fuck. Don’t know about the rebounding but he doe have the length, determination and quick second hop to be good at it. Have to hope to god his O is better.